Is serial device server a simple server?

2018-12-18

Serial device server is basically a server that converts any serial device into an Ethernet-enabled device that can be used in the network. For example, traditionally, old non-network printers that only work when connected to a COM port on a computer can be converted to networking printers, which are controlled from anywhere by connecting it to a serial server, and the serial server is connected to the network through an Ethernet cable. This is done by creating a virtual serial port (with the actual serial port connector hardware, only the interface is virtual) through the serial device server, simulate the PC port to convince the device to think it is connected to a port.

Serial device server can be a very simple device that does not provide any authentication and security, just connect the serial device to the network, or it can be a complex device, providing many functions similar to Ethernet switches and routers. Devices without security or authentication for data and access to serial devices are not security issues, such as local office scenarios involving printers. In comparison, more complex serial servers with full encryption and multiple authentication are used for sensitive situations where security is important, for example, remotely control critical systems, such as environmental control systems, factory control mechanisms and other industrial applications with critical security.

According to different models, serial device server can be connected to simple printers, large screens, robotic assemblers, medical devices, sensors and other industrial equipment that can only be connected via a serial port.